Toronto, Canada — A 19-year-old man appeared in court Tuesday in connection with a devastating crash that claimed the lives of three children and left three others injured. Ethan Lehouillier of Georgetown is facing multiple charges, including three counts of impaired driving causing death, following the incident that occurred early Sunday morning at the intersection of Renforth Drive and Highway 401.
Lehouillier was arrested at the scene and, during his brief court appearance via video link from a detention center, he identified himself but did not seek bail. He is scheduled to return to court next month. Authorities reported that around 12:30 a.m. Sunday, Lehouillier was driving a Dodge Caravan at high speed when he lost control, resulting in a collision with a Chrysler Pacifica that was stopped at a traffic light.
Inside the Pacifica were four children, their mother, and a family friend. Tragically, three siblings aged 15, 13, and 6 lost their lives in the crash. Their identities are protected under a court-ordered publication ban. Police also noted that a 40-year-old man driving the Pacifica, along with a 35-year-old woman and a 10-year-old child, were hospitalized with injuries.
In the aftermath of the crash, which police described as a “horrible tragedy,” community members have rallied to support the grieving family through a GoFundMe campaign that has raised over $143,000. Lehouillier’s attorney stated that it is too early to determine a bail request as they await additional evidence from the Crown.
Advocacy groups are urging continued public awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. Steven Sullivan, CEO of MADD Canada, emphasized the need for targeted messaging aimed at young men, who may be more inclined to engage in reckless behavior. He pointed out that despite the availability of alternatives to drunk driving in urban areas, such choices remain pervasive.
Sullivan noted that there is no singular solution to the impaired driving problem, highlighting the importance of education and enforcement. He called for advancements in technology that could detect sobriety as a potential game changer in preventing drunk driving incidents.
The case echoes the broader societal concern over impaired driving, with similar tragic events in the region serving as haunting reminders. Ontario Premier Doug Ford publicly condemned the crash, stating that those responsible must face severe consequences. This incident stands as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in the fight against impaired driving—a battle that calls for relentless community and governmental efforts.